It's the story of the little vineyard – and family - that could, and did, and won!
Barney Creek Vineyard Cottages, a much-loved family-run boutique winery nestled in the heart of the stunning Scenic Rim, is celebrating a remarkable achievement – just two years after taking over the vineyard, the Forgan family's dedication to crafting exceptional wines has seen their very first vintage win a prestigious Silver Medal and Stewards Award at the Queensland Wine Awards.
They always knew they'd make waves in the wine world with their inaugural vintage, even though it was a hard one to realise.
The Forgan Family's journey began two years ago when they embraced the challenge of continuing the legacy of Barney Creek Vineyard Cottages mid-COVID – not an easy one!
Firstly, they were stuck on the NSW/ QLD border for four months with their two young children, and then had to discard their first yield due to disease from excessive rain and an inability to spray as they were stuck on the border. But they persisted, and it has paid off.
With the guidance and mentorship of 2017 Australian Winemaker of the year, Mike Hayes, Barney Creek's first wine, "Charis" a Petit Verdot Shiraz, impressed judges with its outstanding quality and craftsmanship, earning a Silver Medal.
In addition to the Silver Medal, the wine also took the Stewards Award for Greater Queensland, an honour awarded by the Stewards and people running the show behind the scenes.
"We're so incredibly grateful to Mike Hayes, our winemaker, for taking us under his wing. He's been so generous with his time and knowledge. Being new to the industry, we were nervous entering our wine into the awards, but we were so proud of what we'd created in such a short time, said Aspen Forgan. "We walk through the vineyard talking to our vines, telling them how loved they are, to grow and make beautiful grapes. Receiving a medal and the Stewards award really makes all of the challenges we've been through worth it," she said.
This recognition is just the beginning of the Forgan's journey.
Their cellar door is open for wine tasting every Saturday and Sunday 10am – 4pm, from April through to August. And while it's currently closed as they're back out in the vineyard preparing for next year's vintage, wine enthusiasts can still experience the magic of their award-winning Petit Verdot Shiraz "Charis" by ordering online via their website. And there is wonderful accommodation on the property.
barneycreekcottages.com
